Rhys Webb will make his first start for Wales against France, having been chosen ahead of long-term first-choice scrum half Mike Phillips.

25-year-old Webb was in fine form as the Ospreys thrashed Treviso 75-7 on Sunday.

Wales head coach Warren Gatland said: "I thought Rhys played excellently for the Ospreys at the weekend and he comes in and gives us a different dimension, and it's a great opportunity for him."

Rhys Webb will win his fifth Wales cap against France at the Millennium Stadium. Credit: PA

Phillips has won 82 international caps, and was the first-choice scrum half for the Lions in Australia last summer, but was criticised in the media for his performance as Wales were heavily beaten by Ireland.

After defeat against Ireland, Wales need to beat France to stay in with a chance of winning a third Six Nations title in a row.

"Friday is a massive game for us", Gatland said. "As a squad we have a huge amount of experience in this tournament and we will be calling on that this weekend."

"We see the game as a huge opportunity for us to put things right."

"George [North] moves into the midfield and he brings great footwork to the role and we were impressed when he went there against Australia in the autumn. His partnership with Jamie will be important as we look to stop the directness of France and Mathieu Bastareaud."

George North could start at centre for Wales against France, with Warren Gatland facing a midfield injury crisis.

Scott Williams, Jonathan Davies and Ashley Beck are all unavailable, leaving Gatland the choice between the versatile James Hook and North - usually a winger - to partner Jamie Roberts.

George North played on the wing against Ireland - but could be at centre against France. Credit: PA

Roberts has said: "George is a fantastic player. His physical attributes are incredible, and he is a 17-stone Shane Williams.

"His turn of pace is amazing, and his agility is frightening. He is a world-class talent and we just need to make sure we get him in space and get the ball in his hands."

Second row Luke Charteris and flanker Justin Tipuric are pushing for starting places at the Millennium Stadium on Friday night, while half-backs Mike Phillips and Rhys Priestland have come under pressure for their performances in the 26-3 defeat to Ireland.